Layer Composite Method

The layer composite method controls how a layer will interact with the layer beneath and offers a lot of creative opportunities when using multi-layer files. The layer composite method box is at the top of the Layers palette and is highlighted in Figure 7.10 where it is shown in the default mode.

Figure 7.10

Layer composite method.

Figure 7.10

Layer composite method.

The first set of examples illustrates how the Layer Composite Methods will combine layers with different images on each layer. This is extremely useful when making montages as it allows you to mix image layers in ways that are not possible by any other method. Often this can spark off new directions in which to develop your image.

The following screenshots will provide a brief insight into how each composite method works. The effect of the composite method will differ considerably depending on the content of the two layers that are combined. The opacity setting will also change the appearance. Try this with the multi-layered file we used earlier in this chapter.

Shadow Map

Magic Combine

Figure 7.11

Layer composite methods.

Shadow Map

Magic Combine

Figure 7.11

Layer composite methods.

Soft Light

Hard Light

Figure 7.11

Soft Light

Hard Light

Figure 7.11

(continued)

Saturation

Color

Saturation

Color

Luminosity

Gell Cover

Figure 7.11

Luminosity

Gell Cover

Figure 7.11

(continued)

The second set of examples uses the Layer Composite Method in a different way. This method uses a duplicate copy of the same layer (or a copy of the Canvas) and the composite method to adjust the layer beneath. Depending on which composite method is used the picture can be made lighter or darker or the color changed. The following examples give some idea of possible uses. Remember that the opacity slider will reduce the effect and should be used to fine-tune the result. There is a step-by-step example on the following page.

Step 4 Hold down the Alt/Opt key and click in the picture area, this will make a duplicate copy of the Canvas.

Step 5 Change the Layer Composite Method to the one required.

Hue at 73% Screen at 73%

Figure 7.13

Hue at 73% Screen at 73%

Figure 7.13

Making a multi-layered clone

This step-by-step example will show you how to use the Layers palette while making clones. Several clone versions will be combined to make the final picture:

Figure 7.14

Layers palette.

Figure 7.14

Layers palette.

Making a multi-layered clone

This step-by-step example will show you how to use the Layers palette while making clones. Several clone versions will be combined to make the final picture:

Step 1 File> Open> DVD> Step-by-step files> '07 Donna'.

Step 2 File> Clone.

Step 3 Select> All but do not clear the image. Step 4 Activate the Layer Adjuster tool (top right in the toolbox) and click in the main image with the cursor. This will lift the image off the canvas layer onto a new layer leaving the Canvas plain white. The Canvas will provide a white backdrop for the new layers about to be created. Step 5 Layers> Layer Attributes and change the name to Donna Original. Step 6 Click the eye icon for this layer in the layers palette to hide the picture. You should now have nothing showing in the picture area. Step 7 Make a new empty layer by clicking on the new layer icon at the base of the layers palette (third from the left). Open the layers palette and click on Layer Attributes to rename this layer Round Soft Pastel 10. Step 8 Click the top layer to activate, it is now ready to clone into. The layers palette should now look like Figure 7.15.

Remember to save copies of your work at regular intervals, this is always good practice.

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